Best Wishes for a Happy Holiday and New Year
Numerous events this fall semester leading up to the holiday season and new year have been a source of anxiety for many of us. First and foremost, of course, is the state of the national and global economy, described by many as the worst since the Great Depression. This crisis has impacted many of us personally, and our friends and loved ones, in diverse ways. And as many of you know, the depth of the financial crisis has affected us at Cal State Northridge as well. Other serious events and incidents that have hit our campus community close to home include the Metrolink accident in September, the local fires in October, the detainment of a CSUN student overseas, and tragic student deaths.
Despite the unease and worry many of us are feeling this holiday season, I hope all of you also find comfort in the promise of the new year. The historic presidential election this past November, for example, has created anticipation and excitement, and provided reassurance to many about the strength and wisdom of our democracy. Such transitions of leadership also always bring with them the hope of renewal and fresh ideas.
Although challenges lie ahead, I am confident Cal State Northridge will generate and reflect the same spirit of enthusiasm and energy in the new year. As I have said in the past, Cal State Northridge has always persevered and, indeed, risen to the occasion when faced with challenges, reaffirming for me the amazing resiliency and commitment of our campus community.
At Cal State Northridge, we should take great pride in knowing that, especially in a time of economic distress, the work we do gains even more importance and significance. As a regionally-focused, nationally recognized institution of higher education, we give people opportunities for a better future. The work we do and the graduates we produce ultimately contribute to the overall strength and health of our democratic society. Institutionally and economically, Cal State Northridge plays an important role in the community, the region, and beyond.
With this in mind, please accept my best wishes for a holiday season full of warmth, joy and renewal as we all prepare for a new year and the remainder of the 2008-09 academic year. I hope the holiday and new year celebrations provide opportunities for each of us to take stock of what is important and to appreciate the positives in our lives.
Tags: Holiday break, new year